A BID to save a popular area of green space in Dawlish has taken a major step forward.

Dawlish Town Council has confirmed that its submission to register the Newhay as an Asset of Community Value has been approved by Teignbridge District Council.

The successful application for the Glebe Land off Church Street, next to St Gregory’s Church, is in recognition of the land’s significance to the local community and offers greater opportunities for the protection and potential future use of this important green space.

Under the terms of the Community Right to Bid process, the landowner now has the right to request a review of this decision within eight weeks of notification.

During this period, The Newhay will remain listed as an Asset of Community Value.

A spokesman for the town council explained: ‘It is important to clarify that this listing does not oblige Dawlish Town Council to purchase the land or take on responsibility for its maintenance if the landowner ever decides to sell.

‘The purpose of the listing is to ensure that, should the owner wish to dispose of the land, the community, including the town council, is notified and given the chance to organise a bid, should they wish to do so.

'Any eligible community group is welcome to come forward and express an interest.

‘The town council will continue its due diligence process to enable it to make an informed decision at a later date.’

Mayor of Dawlish Cllr Anthony James, Mayor of Dawlish, said: ‘We are very pleased that The Newhay has been recognised as an Asset of Community Value.

‘This is an important step in giving the Dawlish community a voice in the future of this local green space.

‘We look forward to working with residents and any interested groups to ensure the best outcomes for Dawlish.’

The decision will be welcomed by hundreds of people who want the land kept for the public.

More than 60 people attended a town council meeting in support of the land and 1,542 people signed a Save The Newhay petition.

The area is Glebe land belonging to the Church of England but there is a question mark over its future since Teignbridge Council failed to renew its lease of the site.

The Archdeacon of Exeter has said the Diocese is ‘happy to work with the town council, district council, local church or other community group to find a short term or long term solution to ensuing the space continues to be available for the community.’

Following the appeal by the public, the town council set up a task group to look into the viability of the town council, or community partners, taking on responsibility for the Newhay, including lease or purchase options in the future.

It is also carrying out ‘due diligence’ focusing on boundary, ownership, and structural issues, especially around the bridge and footpath.

Specialist surveys and investigations are being arranged.